The Benin National Library (BnB) has initiated a new phase in its documentary policy, bringing together 25 librarians, library administrators, and reading center operators from across the country. The 5-day workshop, held in Porto-Novo, aims to equip participants with skills to create documentary collections tailored to the needs of their communities. This effort is supported by the International Organization of La Francophonie (OIF).
The workshop's theme, "From selection to documentary policy: building relevant collections, promoting Beninese books, and serving bibliodiversity in reading access points," reflects the library's goal of enhancing its collections. Participants were selected following a call for applications. According to Koffi Attedé, Director of the Library, choosing a book determines what a community can read, understand, and imagine.
The BnB plans to implement five key projects to reposition itself as a central hub in the book chain. These projects include modernizing the legal deposit, creating a comprehensive national bibliography, establishing a statistical platform for the book chain, developing a National Digital Library, and preparing a strategic plan for 2027-2033 aligned with Benin's 2060 Alafia vision.
The representative of the OIF, Marie Isabelle BA, emphasized the importance of transforming libraries into vibrant and attractive spaces that cater to readers' needs. A key aspect of this endeavor is promoting Beninese literature by incorporating more national authors, young writers, and national languages into library collections.
The BnB's efforts aim to bridge the gap between authors, publishers, printers, booksellers, and reading actors. By enhancing its documentary policy and collections, the library seeks to become a dynamic center for literature and knowledge in Benin. The training workshop will provide participants with practical methods and a renewed sense of purpose.
The BnB's director encouraged participants to view themselves as "memory and future ambassadors" rather than mere custodians of bookshelves. This mindset shift is expected to have a positive impact on the development of Benin's literary landscape. The library's new initiatives have been well-received by stakeholders in the country's cultural and educational sectors.
The workshop and the BnB's strategic plans are set to have a lasting impact on Benin's literary ecosystem. By prioritizing the promotion of Beninese literature and enhancing library services, the BnB aims to contribute to the country's cultural and intellectual growth.
Key points
- The Benin National Library is launching a new documentary policy with a 5-day training workshop for 25 library professionals.
- The library aims to promote Beninese literature and enhance its collections to serve the needs of its communities.
- The BnB plans to implement five key projects, including modernizing the legal deposit and developing a National Digital Library.
